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Explore this ideaSunuWatt — Solar Energy Rental
Turnkey residential solar system rental service for urban Senegalese households, with no upfront investment and maintenance included.
The Problem
Dakar suffers from regular power cuts (4 to 8 hours per day in some neighborhoods) that paralyze domestic and professional activities. A complete residential solar system costs between 1.5 and 4 million FCFA to purchase, out of reach for most households. Generators (the common alternative) consume expensive fuel and massively pollute.
The Opportunity
Dakar's strong economic growth creates demand from households wanting to escape power cuts without indebting their family. The solar-as-a-service (energy SaaS) model has proven itself in East Africa (M-Kopa, d.light). Solar panel costs have dropped 90% in 10 years, making the rental model profitable. SENELEC is looking for partners to decentralize residential production.
The Concept
SunuWatt installs a complete solar system (panels + batteries + inverter) on the client's roof with no upfront costs. The household pays a fixed monthly rent of 35,000 to 75,000 FCFA depending on the chosen power (partially replacing the SENELEC bill). After 5 years of rental, the client can purchase the installation at 30% of its initial value or continue renting at a reduced rate. Maintenance is guaranteed for life during the rental period. Payment by Wave or Orange Money debit on the 1st of the month.
The "Secret Sauce" (USP)
- Zero upfront investment: the household accesses solar energy without spending a single franc — total break from traditional solar installers
- Lifetime maintenance guaranteed: SunuWatt commits to repairing or replacing any failing component throughout the contract — total peace of mind
- 5-year purchase option: the client valorizes their property with a 70% amortized solar system — powerful real estate resale argument
Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
To get started quickly:30 pilot installations in Mermoz and Fann Résidence neighborhoods, 1.5 kWc + battery system, test rental at 45,000 FCFA/month, IoT performance monitoring for 4 months.
